Episcopal Anniversary of Bishop Ambrose Celebrated in Vellore Diocese

Vellore, Tamil Nadu, December 11, 2025 : Vellore diocese celebrated the Episcopal Anniversary of Bishop Ambrose, celebrating the occasion with profound gratitude, devotion, and unity among clergy, religious, and laity.

The evening began with preparatory prayers, followed by the Thanksgiving Holy Mass. A beautifully organised anniversary procession set a reverent tone, reflecting the rich spiritual heritage and communal spirit of the diocese.

The celebration was honoured by the presence of distinguished prelates: Bishop T. Sagayaraj of Thanjavur and Auxiliary Bishop Susai Nathan of the Archdiocese of Bangalore. Earlier in the day, Bishop Susai Nathan delivered an inspiring recollection talk to the clergy, inviting them to deepen pastoral zeal, pursue holiness, and embrace their mission as shepherds in contemporary times.

Presiding over the evening Eucharistic celebration, Bishop Ambrose expressed heartfelt gratitude to the clergy, religious, and faithful for their cooperation and support throughout the past year. Bishop Sagayaraj preached a meaningful homily, recalling the blessings and challenges of the year and encouraging the faithful to remain steadfast in faith and service.

In a symbolic gesture of ecological commitment, 1,500 seed balls were dispersed and 1,500 timber saplings were planted across various parishes. The diocese also strengthened its missionary outreach by providing 10 priests with motorbikes, enabling them to serve rural and mission stations with greater mobility and efficiency.

Looking ahead to the diocesan Platinum Jubilee, the foundation stone for the new Pastoral and Catechetical Centre was blessed. Once completed, the centre will serve as a vital resource for faith formation, catechesis, and pastoral training.

The faithful, benefactors, and well-wishers came forward with gifts, floral tributes, and warm wishes for Bishop Ambrose, expressing affection and joy on his first anniversary as shepherd of the diocese. The celebration concluded with a grand fellowship dinner shared by thousands who gathered to mark this significant milestone.

By Fr. Daniel Sharma

Secretary, Vinnarasi Communication Centre

Diocese of Vellore